From Depths We Rise

by Insane Dominator

1 year has passed since Dan and the Battle Brawlers saved the universe, and when things were serene, a new group of Bakugan players are sent to New Vestroia when a dimensional interference forces them to meet each other. Caught in the crossfire with aliens seeking resources, Luke, Abis Omega, and new friends must fight using unlikely odds if they're to save all from extinction.

27. Ripples Before the Wave

The door slid open, the blistering lights of the ceiling burning into Maximus' eyes, forcing him to use his hood. Rogue Zero's prominent leader snarked low as he was introduced to daylight for the first time in weeks.

"Stepping into the light at last I see." In front, Cyrus supervised Maximus.

Maximus grunted in response. He walked forward until he stood before his superior. "Lord Cyrus, why this is so sudden." He modestly smirked. "I was actually believing you'd left me to enjoy myself a little more."

"Your punishment is paid in full." He said. "I hardly see reason to ask about your mental leisure."

Maximus devilishly snickered. "I see you've been well. Where has the time gone by?" While he did smirk, Cyrus, however, had little to muse over.

"I could answer that for you, but I'm certain you're aware of what's going on, am I right?"

"Why of course, why Cesar just gave me the good news earlier. Congratulations on the little turn for our lord and savior himself." He smirked as he started walking pass Cyrus. "I suppose that means Project Armagedoid is a success then."

"I'd rather not get cocky if I were you." He threatened. "Don't forget who you're talking to."

"My apologies. I've been under for so long that the only company I had was to myself. I didn't really peg for you to mind."

Cyrus squinted in annoyance. "Frustrated in your own fears. How I pity you." Behind him, Maximus stopped in his tracks. "This is precisely why you of all people haven't risen in higher power yet. The real world does not care for the trivial who don't use their ambitions in practice."

Maximus glared over his shoulder, but his hood only showed a frown. "As if we're trivial. Not when we have the power to make it happen."

Cyrus continued glaring ahead. "If you were really that intent on becoming the feared, then you must let go. But if you intend on staring in front of a mirror all day to glare at something you want to be, then it'll never happen. Riaan enlisted you for his own reasons. You may think you have power, but only because you're holding onto his hand. He actually knows how to take power for himself and make it his own, unlike you. Know your place."

Maximus grunted with frustration. The bitter growl he was enough to mistake him for a wild animal.

"Now then, if you are done playing 'big bad villain', gather up your forces. His majesty has summoned us to begin the next phase in one hour's time."

"…I understand. And, pray tell, where is his divine one?"

Cyrus looked away. "He's taken a short leave. He had to go run a quick errand."

Maximus smirked. "Well then, best get to work then. Can't leave him disappointed now, can we?"

"As you pitifully did, nothing can be more disappointing than what you are…don't make me look that far down on you again like that." Cyrus teleported away, leaving Maximus to frown before teleporting too.

---

The bedsheets stirred on the queen-sized bedding. Killian stirred awake as his mind was a rough haze as of last night. He pressed the side of his head into his soft pillow. "Two more minutes…" he mumbled. He shifted his legs, but he felt something warm and thick beneath the spreading. Oddly curious, he moved again, only to get the odd feel to move and sandwich his leg. "Mmmm, huh…?" He finally opened his eyes, the blurry vision finally caught view of another face. It was Galilea, and she was lazily looking at Killian with a half-smile. The woman in her late 20s made the man in his early 20s feel a shrivel of fear went down his spine with the situation. He just stared like an owl while Galilea stared back, calmer than he. "Galilea…"

"Good morning." She hummed.

"Uh…morning." He felt after shift beneath the sheets. When he looked down, he realized that he wasn't covered, and neither was Galilea. Immediately his mind raced with the events of last nights when he surmounted her thick backside to massage her, and by the implications he realized what happened. He just held his tongue as he clamped shut out of fear.

Galilea nonchalantly moved beneath the covers to get out of bed, her back facing him, and her face radiated by the sunlight outside. "Did you finally sleep well?" she asked.

Killian calmed and looked down at his sheets. "…yeah. I was out."

Galilea smirked. "Good…I'm glad."

Killian looked at her as she turned to face him. The associates smiled at one another, partially dreamily but one of awkward sincerity. Guys would've killed to be in Killian's position, or rather of last night, but from the look Galilea had, she seemed amused by it more. Both of their smartphones rung in time to break the tension between them.

Killian reached over, reaching for his and pressed a button. He tapped to show a message. "…great."

"What is it?" Galilea asked.

Killian tried rubbing the gunk out of his eyes. "Rogue Zero's got a meeting in an hour. Maximus wants us all in Cesar's lab in 15 for something special."

"Is that so?" Galilea moved to reach for her own clothes. She reached for her phone as well to find a similar message for herself. She and Killian started getting dressed together, though both stared in opposite directions.

"…hey, Galilea."

"Yes?"

"Thanks…for everything."

Galilea softly smiled as she pulled her long hair through her shirt. "…you're welcome. I hope you're rested well…I'll be needing your strength."

"I won't let you down."

---

The Revolutia mannerism was nice and quiet. With the events following the news of worldwide panic and Riaan starting to infest upon all life, they had to remain vigilant.

Speaking of a certain someone, teleporting on the outskirts of the manner grounds, Riaan appeared with his former attire on. His crown was gone and looked as he did before. 'The atmosphere…it's different here.' At first, he figured it was his powers making the air dry, but this was different. It was like a tension was in the air. He steeled himself and went his way to the front. As he made way along the side, his presence was picked up by Cale.

The old engineer perked up as he saw Riaan walking pass the gates. He turned towards one of the guards in the area and gave him a nod. He looked at his walkie talkie and started to speak into it. "He's back…"

The doors to the main chambers of Claire and Augustine were pushed open, revealing one of the guards. "Sir! Ma'am!"

Both perked out of their seats as they were watching the news and looked back. They saw the guard give them a worried look.

"…he's back."

They looked at each other and nodded. They knew it would come to this, but they didn't think it would really happen. "Alright then…" Augustine paused. "Claire."

"Yes dear, I know." She said.

"Okay then…let him enter."

"Yes, sir." The guard talked into the walkie-talkie. "Permission granted. Let him in."

Outside, the guard who was at the gate unlocked it manually. The gates creaked open and he stepped off to the side to allow Rian clear passage into the manner grounds. He walked up the steps and more guards opened the doors, closing them behind. As he walked down the hall, he met Claire and Augustine at the end, both half-smiling upon seeing.

Claire nodded. "Riaan, you've returned."

"It's been a while." Augustine said neutrally, extending a hand to shake.

Riaan nodded back. "Yes. It most certainly has been, hasn't it?" He reached and returned the handshake, their grasps firm on one another, like the tension wasn't bad enough as it was.

…

Mira was in her lab graphing data based on the schematics that Jase laid out earlier. They were so complex that it was taking her relentless hours to fix it all up and properly estimate. "How is it that he was able to lay this all out? Honestly…" She was lost in thought for a moment until red sirens went off. "Huh? What's that?!" She shriveled back towards the graphs, seeing them slowly rise up in levels. She turned towards the global chart to see Riaan's energy. For some reason, it spread a little further, while energy arrows from the earth's mantle layers were all directing to one spot. The offhanded energy circulating made her squint incuriosity. "What is this…?"

…

Riaan and the Revolutia family sat in the lounge area. Augustine and Claire sat on a long couch directly across Riaan's chair. A small coffee table separated them, where their hot tea sat with simmering mist rising.

"I apologize if my absence has troubled you. It must have been a lot of stress for you to handle." Riaan said.

"It's nothing. Honestly." Augustine said. "We're just relieved that you were able to make it out okay."

"Your sentiments are appreciated. But I'm deeply humbled as well." He looked down with a frown. "But, if I may ask…was there any becoming of Luke or Shawn?"

Augustine and Claire looked at each other, like they were figuring out what to say. In spite of what they already know, they had to keep playing the part. They both faced him, uncertain but steeled looks in their eyes.

"Riaan…I'm sorry, but I'm afraid we haven't seen them." Claire lied.

Riaan gave them a look. He noticed a few shifts in the air and picked up on some hints, like the guards around them. He glared forward. "I see…I was hoping at least one of them would turn up somewhere. So then they are at large still…" he lowered his head. "I'm sorry. I've failed you."

Augustine also lowered his head. "It's not your fault. All we can do now for our boy…is to pray and hope for the best."

"But as you know." Riaan interjected. "Praying and hoping won't be enough. In times like this, action is required." He stood up once more. "It was my obligation to bring Luke and his friend home, and to that I have failed. If it's alright, I can issue a report and spread the word if needed…but that is all I can do from here on."

"What are you saying?" Claire asked.

"Mr. and Mrs. Revolutia. Please, I know how important this is to you and your security…but I was at home all this time. Unfortunately, I had to tend to things with everything changing. I…am afraid that I came back here to tell you that."

Claire's eyelids dropped some. The despondent look she had a faced on was turning genuine. She, along with Augustine, both thought to the years they've known Riaan. They recalled the times they've exchanged presents on Christmas, or how they always welcomed him home with anniversary gifts for his services. Such bittersweet memories. It honestly pained them, but they couldn't hold back. They knew the truth, so they had to do what was right.

Augustine calmed himself. "…actually, Riaan. There was something we needed to tell you as well."

Riaan said nothing. He looked around to notice the guards he had trained and worked with all his years were giving straight faces. He looked back at Claire and Augustine, but more accurately, the news broadcasted about the disasters. Pictures showed climates changing and falling apart landscapes. He kept a straight face as he picked up on the note. "Do tell." He said.

"You've been way for so long, on many of occasions actually." Augustine continued. "You've taken vacation days that were ahead of schedule, and you've been looking as though you prioritize your home. We humbly understand, but work is still work. I hope that you can forgive us."

Riaan looked modestly shocked. "Are you telling me what I think you're telling me…?"

"Listen, Riaan." Claire stood up, with Augustine following. "We don't want to do this as much as you. You're like a brother who always looked out for us; for Luke; for us; and we can't thank you enough for everything you've done to keep us out of harm's way…but it's time to move on."

The men closed in around Riaan, to which he eyes every last one of them.

"Riaan…I'm afraid we're going to have to let you go."

"…how unfortunate it is indeed." Riaan half-heartedly answered. "…to think things would go this way for both of us. I truly am sorry."

"Now!" Francis, the head guard, roared.

The men all went to jump and restrain Riaan. They closed in with tasers and weapons of various showing, but in speeds faster than light turning on, a slash wave bored through the air in a full circle. All the men were drifting before their chests split open with blood as they dropped to the floor. Riaan lowered his head in his slash pose. "My men…it truly has been glorious to have known you."

"No!" Claire shrieked.

"You're mad!" Augustine shouted, but a sword was pointed to his face in retaliation, stopping him cold.

"Now listen well, I am not easy to figure out, but this was brought on by yourselves." He bellowed. "It truly is painful for me to do this, but I myself must move on. My home calls for me. If this is what it's come to, then I guess this means we have nothing else to discuss."

Augustine balled his fists. "Riaan…"

Riaan sighed out, calming himself to where he willingly pulled his sword down. "Listen well, because of your hospitality and treating me well over the years, I will give this one warning. As my token of gratitude for my services in your stead, I will tell you that this world is finite. You have such time before the disasters swallow you up…but, for you, I will spare this area, at least until the time comes."

"Riaan!" Claire gasped.

Riaan closed his eyes, mourning quietly. "Mr. and Mrs. Revolutia…it has been my honor to be at your mercy these years." He smiled in great respects. "When Interacia is reborn to one whole world, I promise in return to make sure your reincarnations will prosper. This is goodbye…Until we meet again, in another place." He started teleporting on the spot.

"Riaan!" Augustine reached out, but it was too late as his hand fazed through the last of Riaan as he vanished. The man looked ahead in shock before he shut his eyes in regret. His face showed visible pain as he imagined Riaan once more. "Farewell…old friend."

"What are we gonna do?!" Claire worried. "I'm worried about Luke!"

"Luke should be fine for now. Right now, these guys need medical attention!" Augustine reached down to a man, putting his hand on the gash on the chest. "Stay with me! Claire, you and Cale call 911!"

"Right!" Claire hurried to rush for a phone.

---

Riaan teleported back into his chambers. He opened his eyes and had a new glare of resolution shown. 'So, Luke and his cohorts made it back after all. I should've known it would turn out like this. To think they managed to stir up such a ruckus even after everything that's happened. If they are not there, they must be working on a plan to stop me. If so, odds are the Battle Brawlers aren't far behind…' "Then we have no choice then. We must resume and move forward with the plan at once!" He moved to his chair, in which he made turn around and face the open space to the vaults before him. "For the sake of history and for our sullied origins, all must be realized!"

Minutes later, below him, Hades Pillars were all standing in perfect rows of three on either side. Zion stood beside Lucia and Amina while Cyrus was opposite with Galilea and Magnus. They all said nothing as Riaan glared forward as Rogue Zero bowed on a knee for Riaan.

"Your highness, you have our deepest gratitude for allowing us to be in your presence." Maximus spoke modestly. This made the others around him shoot him glares, to which he ignored.

"Rogue Zero and Hades Pillars." Riaan started. "I trust that you all understand why you are here. It is time that we commence with the next phase of Project Armagedoid." On his shoulder, Armagedoid opened in ball form.

Lucia looked up. "With your regal eminence guiding us, we won't fail you. This we vow." Lucia swore.

Amina snickered. "Speaking of such a kissup."

"Silence." Zion sniped. "Milord is speaking." With his notion, Lucia and Amina silenced. "Apologies, your graciousness."

"Don't trouble yourselves over it." He turned towards Maximus. "Maximus Rogue."

"Yes, sir."

"I've been giving some thought. Despite what you and your team have done, I have decided to give you all another chance. You've paid for your probations, so I expect to see you all refreshed and ready to do everything you can for Interacia, is that clear?"

Maximus nodded. "Thank you, sir. We promise to live up to your worthwhile expectations. Don't we?"

Xander arrogantly smirked. "Why of course. It's our duty to follow you after all." Whether it was meant for Maximus himself or for Riaan, Rogue Zero looked ahead with their heads bent up slightly.

"Your cooperation is most vital." Riaan said. "Now then, I've been told that you and your Bakugan have been given new forbidden cards, is that true?"

Cesar arrogantly chuckled as he prodded his glasses. "Why of course, sir. The experimentation and results of the first abilities and battles were all great templates if I must say."

"And the word of the other Bakugan that were to take part in this phase, has the infusion process been productive?"

"On my life and dignity as Interacia's most prestigious genius. I've put great care into personally selecting this army with the finest of each species. I'm certain you will be quite pleased."

Riaan grinned. "I will hold you to that. Cyrus."

"Yes, milord." Cyrus stepped in front of everyone, where he swiped his arm to reveal images of a planet with populace and futuristic technology. "As you are aware, Interacia's technology at this point is at moderate condition. The outer layer has finally broken down to allow sunlight. That being said, our world is ever changing, and that means to keep up, we will be needing advance technology to ensure our enhancements move further."

"So we shall be integrating another planet's resources into our world as well." Ariella deduced.

"Yes. It is called Vestal, a planet that milord has already been to and infected. And it's here that our great lord will issue a preemptive strike." Another screen appeared, showing the face of a man with a mask. "This man upholds an important key to our data. He has another component of forbidden cards and Battle Gear that he achieved. To fully integrate, we must learn more of this technology."

"Also, this is another vital piece." Galilea intruded. "The schematics of the Mechanical Bakugan were once generated here that Lord Riaan was kind enough to copy along with the forbidden card blueprints. Hence why this is another reason why this planet is essential."

Hendrix bowed his head. "To know the Mechanical Bakugan origins, and to retrieve the blueprints of these three data prints. That is our mission."

Riaan stood up, making everyone either return to place or bow as he walked down the steps. "In short, yes. We have constructed another core that will replicate the life and blueprints of the mentioned. Your tasks are to make sure nobody interferes while it is to find a suitable spot for Hades Pillars to implant in. Is that understood?"

Everyone nodded.

"Maximus, I'm putting you in charge of the brigade. Hades Pillars and myself will be on standby as you clean the slate. Please don't make me regret this decision."

Maximus darkly smirked. "Trust me, I guarantee…you won't be disappointed."

Riaan grinned. "Good. The operation begins in 12 hours. Hades Pillars, prepare the core. Everyone else, you re dismissed." Everyone vanished from the room in teleportation at that moment, leaving Riaan to turn back and sit on his throne. "Armagedoid, are you ready?"

The Darkus Bakugan nodded. "I am…Master."

---

On Vestal, the nighttime sky reminisced like that of Earth. No cosmos like New Vestroia, but the number of stars in the sky made it look like fireworks beneath a massive estate-like domain surrounded by a glistening lake.

"No way! You mean that's my trailer?!" Baron was catching up on things, and one of the first things he's learned was that the Battle Brawlers Resistance's former base was right in front of him all this time. "I was wondering what happened to it!"

"You can hardly recognize it from the way it is now." Nemus said.

Jase stood calmly. "We've found it in New Vestroia. Unfortunately with the limited shelters, it was our most adequate option. We apologize for the changes made. It suffered drastic damage while doing its part."

Baron looked all around the exterior with a huge smile. "Wow, just awesome. Man, it's no wonder why Ace and I didn't see it at first! Loving the paintjob."

"So then the Trailer was made here on Vestal." Maggie realized. "Man, just when you think it's full circle…wait!" She suddenly got a worried look. "Please! Whatever you do, don't take away the Trailer! We need it!" she begged wishfully. "It's been our lifelong!"

Shuji rubbed the back of his head. "Yeah, hate to say it, but I'm with her on this one. We'd be dead by now if we didn't have this guy carrying us."

Baron put his hands up and shrunk back. "Woah chill out guys. I think you're getting the wrong idea. It's not that I want it back or anything, I'm just surprised it's still here." He looked up at the mechanical masterpiece. "And besides, it looks like it's in awesome shape. You guys really gave it a tune up that even I'm not sure I can ride it."

"You mean…we can keep it?" Maggie questioned.

"Yeah. I've got no problems with it."

"Oh yes! Thank you, thank you!" Maggie slid next to the Trailer and gave it a nice bug hug with a dreamy smile. "You hear that big guy, you get to stay! Isn't that great?!"

"Well that's a relief." Shawn turned towards Baron. "Where'd your friend go?"

"Ace? I think he went to talk to Klaus about you guys. He's trying to give you permission to stay here on us. And I think he's trying to get in touch with Mira on Earth." Baron heard footsteps from the side, revealing Ace. "Huh? Oh, hey Ace. We were just talking about you. So what's the word?"

Ace had a hand to his hip. "Well I managed to get Klaus hooked onto what went down. Since you guys know the Brawlers and Mira, he's willing to have you stay for a little while on his treat."

Shuji smirked. "Alright!"

"And what about Mira?" Nemus asked.

Percival popped open on Ace's shoulder. "We just contacted her. She just filled us in; their story checks out."

"So that means that our planet might be getting climate or decomposing, but we don't know how long exactly." Ace said. "As far as Mira said, we should tell her if anything suspicious happens, that way she can work up a chart on that as well."

Keegan shrugged. "Well, sounds like a lot of work for you guys, huh?" He started walking off.

"And just where do you think you're going?"

Keegan glanced back. "We're guests here, right? If I'm gonna be here, I might as well enjoy myself a little." He turned and walked back around the lake. "I'm gonna see if the buffet is free, 'cuz I'm starving." He wandered off, leaving the others to look at him.

"Good grief." Shawn sighed.

"It can't be helped I suppose." Verias said. "He's trying to adjust to things is all."

Atmos popped open on Jase's shoulder. "Perhaps so, but his cooperation with us is essential."

"As callous as he is, I must agree. Any allies will work for us for the time being." Jase noted. "Now then, to you two. Has there been any link as to where Spectra might be?"

"Mira already tried contacting Alpha City. My guess that's where he would've been if possible." Ace answered. "But beyond that, we haven't seen him in ages."

"I see, so then we'll be searching on our own tomorrow. We appreciate your advice though, we'll make use of it."

Maggie began looking around. "What's wrong, Maggie?" Jelldon asked.

"Hey, has anyone seen Luke or Esther?"

Shuji put his hand to his chin. "Hmm, yeah! Where the heck did that guy go? Better not have run off again."

"I wouldn't imagine he'd do something like that at this time." Jase said as he prodded his glasses up. "For Esther, I'm certain that she was in the shower, if memory serves. As for Luke, well, the problem child still eludes the consequences."

Shawn looked down. "Yeah, I haven't seen Luke since he lost…come to think of it, I think that's why we haven't seen him."

"So he's moping because we beat him? Well that's sporting." Ace waved them off as he turned away. "Well do what you want, but I'm not caring. So long as you don't stray too far that is. You coming, Baron?"

Baron looked up at the Trailer some more. "I think I'm gonna look around some more. I wanna see what else these guys did."

"Suit yourself. Later." Ace walked off, leaving the others to themselves for the time being. But of the group, Shawn looked towards the upper rims of the Trailer, a frown fixed on his face.

'Luke.'

---

With the Trailer set to its observation mode, that meant the railings and balcony on either side was also up. On the far side of the balcony facing the woods, Luke gripped the railing as Abis Omega was open and sitting on the railing next to him. Both were admittedly quiet ever since arriving to the lake complex. They haven't spoken much of one word to another, but words weren't exactly necessary. They already knew what the other felt: Disappointment.

They tried so hard, and yet they couldn't win in the end. The sooner this sunk in, the deeper in thought he got. He thought back to when he and Abis hopelessly lost against Luka in Troposphere and made their vow to change and die together. They've been through a lot together since then, and no matter what, they won because of their will and determination. They beat many of challenging foes, such as Megarus, Hyper Dragonoid and Clawcer, even Jetro…but even so, this loss shook them up pretty good.

The image of Percival overpowering Atmos' trump card and being blasted replayed in his head, like it was constantly on loop. To make matters worse, the more he thought about it, the more humiliating it was. Thinking about this made his fists ball in growing frustration.

"Damnit." He muttered depressingly.

"You're not joining the others as usual I see." A voice said.

Luke and Abis Omega perked up upon hearing footsteps behind. They turned around to see someone who they recognize. "Esther…" Luke half-heartedly greeted. "We were just…"

Esther had her cold composure as usual as she walked to his side. Like him, she looked out at the sky above them. "You make it too easy, you know. I know what's bugging you."

Luke flinched at her insight. He looked ahead somberly and sighed. "Shouldn't you be with the others, too?"

"You idiot. Don't tell me you've forgotten." She turned to look at him. "I promised that I would watch you, didn't I?"

In truth, Luke actually did forget. He scratched his cheek as he meekly smiled at the railing. "I guess I really am that horrible, huh…"

Esther modestly looked back at the sky. "No, I wouldn't say that. You're still learning is all." She looked down and closed her eyes. "You should know, life isn't without obstacles. Making amends and taking a certain path always has hardships, no matter what they are. It's never that easy…I'm sure you of all people would've known that by now."

Luke despondently looked at the ground. He noted Esther's words and knew she was right. He just couldn't say it the way he wanted to. All he did was ball his fists in anger and frustration tighter, which Esther noticed.

"If you're sunken over that battle, don't feel too bad. You and Jase did your best."

"…but it still wasn't enough." He growled.

"That may be, but we're still in one piece. We were fortunate they were hospitable towards us for respects."

"Yeah…but that's just it." He muttered. "We always had to win. It's not like we'd have much of a choice or anything. If we didn't win…we'd die, or something bad like that."

Esther nodded in sympathy. "I know exactly what you mean. To others, this is just a simple game. It didn't matter if you win or lose. But for us, it was another story. We didn't have the luxury of knowing a battle with nothing to gain at its end. For us, each battle we had, it was to survive. You were right. On New Vestroia; on Interacia; if we didn't know how to battle and push ourselves, then we would've been killed."

Luke's face fell further. "It's a fault, isn't it?"

Esther shook her head. "No, it's just how we see it. We were just given a different perspective is all. I'm sure Ace and Baron had those kinds of battles too at some point. And that goes without say for the Battle Brawlers." She softly smiled at Luke. "You try hard, Luke. We just take battles seriously is all, there's nothing wrong with that."

"Yeah…" His fists began to loosen on the railing. "But we still couldn't win. I'm sorry."

Esther continued smiling at him. "You know, you gain more from failure than you do from victory. You've suffered along the way and learned from your losses and mistakes. You may have lost once, but you can always walk away from this with new experience. You can do that, can you?"

Luke looked at Abis Omega and vice versa. They shared the same somber stares, and began to reflect on one another. Realizing how far they've come from the start, Luke managed to smile sincerely for once and nodded at Esther. "Yeah, I guess so…" he rubbed his head. "Thanks, Esther. I think I feel a little better now." He looked at Abis Omega again. "Yeah, I guess we've lost this time…but that just means we have to work harder, right?"

"Well that's what we always did, so I don't see why not." Abis said, floating onto his shoulder. "Those guys were tough, but next time I won't let you or the others down again."

"Yeah, same here." He faced the skies again, showing determination with his flare reignited. "Our worlds are at stake. If we're gonna save them somehow, we're gonna have to keep pushing ourselves. That's what we promised, right?"

"Truer words never spoken." He replied. "From a dunce."

Luke did an eyeroll. "Sure, rub it in why don't ya."

Esther and Atchibee smiled softly at the two. Seeing Luke's spirit reignited made her feel relieved inside. She wouldn't be able to say it to his face – let alone to herself – but it was because of Luke that she was put onto a better path. If Luke didn't try, she never would've left the church. She would probably be thanking God for everything and be cleaning her sins until death. Like Luke, she had to stay strong and willful alongside Atchibee. The two looked at one another with a passion that Luke and Abis Omega shared. They shared the sentiment, and knew that sitting around won't solve anything.

"Luke."

"Yes, Esther?"

"Would it be okay if we sparred again?"

A big smile crossed his face. "Yeah! We've gotta keep improving. That's how we got here. Ready, Abis?"

"Like we have a choice. Let's get to it!"

"The sentiment is returned." Atchibee closed. "Let's make use of ourselves before the next battle."

"You guys looking for someone to help you?" Another voice called. When they all looked towards the entrance again, they all saw Baron with Nemus on his shoulder. "Sorry if I'm interrupting. I was looking around and I heard of what you said." He pointed a thumb to himself. "If you'd like, Nemus and I can give ya some pointers."

"You would? That'd be great!" Luke chimed.

"Really?! You mean it?!" Baron balled his fist and looked like he was gonna exploded. "Ohhh yeah, this is so awesome! Yeah!" he pumped a fist high to the air. "This is gonna be awesome! As a student of Master Dan, now I'm gonna be a master too! Haha!"

Nemus had a bead of sweat on his head. "Don't get carried away, Baron."

"We appreciate the help." Esther commented. "You have our gratitude."

---

Outside the Trailer moments later, they were out by the lakeside, with everyone looking ready to battle.

"Okay, Gate Card set!" Baron threw the Gate Card out, making it fade over the water in a yellow rippled. He held Nemus between two fingers and braced himself. "Let's go, Nemus! Bakugan, brawl! Nemus, stand!"

In a shimmering light, Nemus arose to battle. He twirled his staff and prepared for battle.

"You ready, Esther!" Luke shouted.

"Yes, I am." She pulled her arm back, ready to swipe.

"Bakugan, brawl! Bakugan, stand!" Together, Luke and Esther threw in Abis Omega and Atchibee. Both Bakugan arose to battle, with Atchibee floating while Abis Omega sprung out of the water with a hiss.

"Okay Nemus, let's get this party started!" Nemus swiped his arm. "Gate Card, open! Healing Up!" The Gate Card opened, enveloping a glow on Nemus as he raised his staff high. "Alright, bring it!"

Luke balled his fists as he glared forward with his sea serpent. 'I can't make any brash moves. Even if this is training, we can't hold back. This isn't a game.' He showed two abilities. 'Remember what you and Shawn did to work hard that whole night! Let's try this!' "Counterattack! Double ability, activate! Aquos Ripple, plus Fusion Ability, Blue Mega!" Abis' diamonds on his body glowed bright blue as he exerted a powerful roar. He exerted a powerful blue ripple from his body, which expanded out across the water. Adding in the Fusion Ability, the blue waves became shockwaves that had impact against Nemus, making him roar as he faltered.

"What the-?!" Baron exclaimed.

"A nullification with a fusion ability to do damage?" Nemus regained his balance, which he floated above. He caught whim of Atchibee, who soared across and let out a shriek as she slashed her scythe across Nemus' face, causing him to recoil in shock again.

"Woah, these guys are serious." Baron was astonished to say the least. He looked forward, seeing the intense look Luke was giving. He looked back, seeing Abis and Atchibee physically charge, albeit nimbly. Baron smirked as well. "Man, we're gonna learn a lot too. Kick up the jets Nemus!"

---

Ace walked down the hallways of the apartment complex they resided at. He strode down the dim-lit hallway right near the windows. He was minding his own business when a dark purple flash from outside caught his attention.

"Huh, what's that?" Percival asked.

Ace looked out the window. He watched what looked like a battle between Nemus and Abis Omega as the latter dove underwater to avoid an explosive light blast. This left Nemus' guard down behind as Atchibee went to slash at his back. Nemus faltered forward, where a spiral of water from the lake shot up beneath him, pushing him up a few feet before Abis Omega shot up and rammed his head into Nemus' chest, causing the Bakugan to wane off to the side.

"What is Baron up to now?" Ace rhetorically asked.

Not too far away, the explosions were heard from Luke's group as well. "Hey, looks like someone's having a blast." Fly Beetle pointed out.

"Huh? Who?" Shuji asked.

The others saw Nemus fire another blast of light at Atchibee, but descending in a steep dive, Atchibee crossed her scythes and sliced into the attack. It slowed her down considerably, but she refused to give up. With a merciless howl, the moth Bakugan flapped her wings and dug deeper into the light, driving herself closer towards Nemus

"Don't give up so easily, Atchibee!" Esther exclaimed, which made Atchibee slash her scythes and dissipate the light in midair. She held up her dark purple Bakumeter and showed an ability. "Now!"

"Darkus Slave!" Atchibee flapped her wings, firing rounds of dark pink and purple projectiles that rained down onto Nemus.

"Not so fast there! Nemus!" Baron shouted.

"You got it! Borehole Reflection!" Nemus' staff glowed and twirled it around, blocking the intense volley that was aiming for him.

As he defended, he was unaware of a camouflaged Abis Omega with his Osmosis to get beneath him again. He snaked his tail from underwater around Nemus' leg and gave it a harsh yank, literally pulling his leg to trip and cause him to splash into the water.

"Wow, these guys really can fight." Baron said, impressed. "But we've got skills of our own as well!"

Just as he said that, a massive geyser of water spouted, making Atchibee realize she had to be weary. From the spout, a multitude of Nemus shot out and surrounded Atchibee, while a few aimed at the water in case Abis Omega revealed himself.

Esther braced herself for an ability to use, but she heard a sphere thrown. "Ability activate, Cloud Zero!"

A green cloud-like whirlwind enveloped the whole top of the lake. Atchibee looked around surprised as the Nemus clones all vanished and the real Nemus covered up. Just then, a horn with yellow tusks knocked him away.

Abis' head slipped up from the water. "What?" He looked around, seeing the other Bakugan around them. "You guys!"

Luke looked behind and gasped. "What? Shawn?!"

The Haos battler smiled. "Sorry, were we interrupting?"

Luke looked in another direction, seeing Jase with glasses shielding his eyes. "We just couldn't help but overhear a few things. Please to accept our apologies."

"You ask me, nothing to apologize for." Shuji rammed his fists together. "Gotta get strong ya know!"

Maggie nodded. "Yup, can't fall behind like that! Ready, Jelldon?"

Jelldon raised his tentacles and glared. "Let's do this!"

"You guys…" Luke stared at everyone participating and looked back at the Bakugan. They looked indifferent to some extent but from their actions, he could feel they were getting into it as well. A serious look framed his face as he balled his fist. "Okay then…let's get to work! Abis Omega!"

The serpent flexed his fins and dove underwater once more, preparing another assault.

Ace continued watching as the others worked hard in honing their skills. He was so distracted he didn't realize Keegan was beside him. "Well aren't they having a party, huh?" he nonchalantly said.

Ace glanced over. "Oh, you." He said half-heartedly.

Keegan looked down the hallway behind him. "This place ain't half-bad. It ain't Thermosphere, but it sure beats where I lived before this all spiraled down."

Ace scoffed. "Well don't go getting used to it. Still got a bone to pick with you, you know." He shot a glance at him. "I don't trust you just yet. In fact, I don't fully trust those guys as well." He looked out the window again, seeing Jelldon shoot red lightning across the water, which Nemus dodged. In midair, Nemus created a shockwave of light that barreled down onto Verias, who used Simian Howl and bellowed back shockwaves, making airwaves dissipate and shred across the water and land. "This whole thing is just crazy to a blind man, but I'd rather not look like a fool. I can tell where these guys come from, so it's better playing a safe hand."

"Better safe than sorry." Percival said.

"Hey, speaking of which, shouldn't you be joining them or something?"

Keegan scoffed back and shrugged "Not interested." He turned away. "This is your guys' problem. Besides, shouldn't you be helping them, too?"

Ace returned another scoffed. "I don't do protegees. Besides, I can't imagine the circle out there getting bigger. I'd save it for the real fight…also, what's your reason for being here? Can't imagine a freeloader like you not paying rent to someone."

Keegan started walking away. "I don't have a reason or purpose why I should care. All I want is somewhere I can actually be appreciated. Is that too much to ask?" he snorted. "I'm gonna find a restroom around here. Maybe washing my eyes will wash the pity I saw today."

Ace and Percival watched him leave. As soon as he was out of sight, their looks said it all.

"Well ain't he something."

"That may be, but the others said he lost everything. Reputation, home, friends…wouldn't you feel the same?"

Ace looked down in slight guilt. "Yeah, guess you have a point."

---

Water ran down the faucet and into the drain. Keegan sloshed his face with the tepid water. He made sure to swish his face as much as possible to ensure it soaks into the skin. He needed this. He had the warm water get int the eyes, making a stinging pleasure fill his tired gaze. Once he had taken a certain fill of it, he hovered over the sink to watch the faucet run. His mind started racing like a record player or a disc on auto-start that he didn't realize it. Looking in the mirror, he stared at hos reflection. The angle he looked at was what shook him up. His face was all wet, reflecting his skin and making a damp wrinkle beneath his eyes. His eyes seared into his own reflection as he stared into the window that was himself. The longer he glared at himself, the more contemplative matters that took over. Seeing how he was compared before, he began to ask some serious questions that even he couldn't figure out.

In less than three weeks, hell broke loose. It was just another weekend after a long night of nothing back in Thermosphere, and the next morning this hotshot fatty with a low-level Fly Beetle one-ups him like he was the juvenile one. His winning streak was lost; his months of worth completely wasted. To make matters worse, soon after they were back on Thermosphere in the center of Devil Miasma, with borders and walls all closed down. Two strikes right there. The third strike is the guy who beat him and his friends coming around. He was absolutely horrified when he realized Luke destroyed his town. That's where he was all his life. His reputation and home were gone. What did he have left? Onto something else bugging him, he learned of his species' origins and realized what fakes they were. He didn't even realize all the Interacian Bakugan were fixed as the way they were copied from other species. So, while they continued evolving, he was lagging behind, with no home, and no one to trust. He wasn't even sure if he was supposed to be trusting himself now.

If he was supposed to be a coalition of species with human skin on, then what was he? Who was he? He didn't think too hard about it until now, that's why he was glaring at his own reflection. He was a wreck. Compared to his life a month ago when all he thought about was winning with a smug on his face. Realizing now just how short-sided he was, he started to see his true self. Himself. The ugly guy who had bags under his eyes. Epiphany upon epiphany began to pile on that he almost drowned, literally. He realized he didn't turn the faucet off and stopped the water. As the water slowly drained, he saw his own life spiral down. What was left now…was just an empty shell with two questions.

Who are you? What do you want?"

Instead of drying his face, he walked over towards the wall and leaned into it. His fingers tapped against the wall as this question played in his mind over and over, and each time he got the same answer: Nothing.

"I don't know…"

---

Meeting in Cesar's lab, Rogue Zero stood around while Cesar was zipping along with his anti-gravity chair. He hummed as he was flying from one panel to another, getting them all organized for the big plan.

"So we're planet-hopping again." Killian said, breaking the silence.

"Yes, so it would seem." Hendrix nodded. "Everyone is aware of what's at stake."

"Of course we are." Ariella sniped. "Did you truly believe Lord Riaan would forgive us if he knew we weren't ready. We've already been given a chance. I'd rather not be at the end of somebody's heel when this is all over."

Xander smirked. "Ha. It's funny you talk that way, considering what Amina does to keep you busy."

Ariella glared at him. "Do you really want to insult me? I could tell everyone about your punishment with Zion." She mischievously smirked as Xander scoffed. "So how did it feel being someone's little punching bag?"

Despite the insult, he smirked. "Ha, better than being somebody's slave. Did you make sure to wash that dirt out of your nails, Ariella?" He chuckled as she sneered in retaliation.

As the two had a banter going, Hendrix turned towards Killian quietly. The two stared before they looked back them.

"Hmph! Well then…" Ariella glared at Killian. "Killian, how did you enjoy your punishment?"

"Right." Xander smirked. "Exactly how much did Galilea work you to the bone."

His face paled as he looked unamused. "Please don't drag me into this."

Moskeeto popped open on his shoulder. "Miss Galilea slept with him. Is that punishment enough?"

At that instant, Cesar and everyone shifted their eyes and ears at Killian. He turned pale as his left eye twitched a little. He noticed the shocked looks of Ariella and Xander, while Cesar and Hendrix looked at him in question. Even Maximus raised a brow in intrigue. Killian said nothing as he slowly pressed his Bakugan's muzzle with two fingers.

"Moskeeto." He whispered calmly, hiding his anger well. "You and I are gonna talk later. Big time."

Xander whistled as he did an eyeroll. "Okay, well, didn't have to know that!"

Hendrix grunted as he faced forward with no words.

Ariella looked ahead as well, smirking arrogantly. "And here I thought you were a worker, not a Casanova. Suddenly I feel all my respect for you is gone."

Killian tried to keep confidence as he furrowed his brow. Maximus ignored the pleasantries and stared ahead. "Well it's good to know you've all got such high spirits." He said. "Good. We'll be needing that. Cesar!"

"Yes, sir~." Cesar floated down from another panel he sat into place and levitated to Rogue Zero. "You call?"

"Sorry to be so rude, but are you almost done?"

Cesar chucked low before it spurts into a laughter of pride. "My dear Maximus. Why, of course it's almost ready. Why, I was just making sure the dimensional transport systems are operational and all. If one fell back, we'd need to fit a certain number in another sector, now wouldn't we? After all…" his glasses refracted lightning, making him look more insidious. "…a mere 5,000 takes a lot to control now, doesn't it?" He invoked another inside the lab, rising a little.

Ariella couldn't help but sneer again. "Well now, seems Lucia's been keeping someone else busy, hasn't she?" She looked towards Hendrix to she what he said, but the Subterra battler showed no opinion of his own. "Suit yourself."

Xander approached Maximus. "Max, what about…" Maximus put an arm out to stop him. "Patience, friend." He sniped. "The good doctor's been at hard work. All in good time."

Cesar resumed the panel moving and making sure coordinates were triple checked on the last few. As his chair floated out, he hummed as he looked at the massive wall of panels with hundreds of Bakugan labeled by category in certain locations to strike. Light shimmered on his glasses as his teeth showed in his smile. "There…" He turned his chair around. "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all so very much for your patience. I trust you, yours and my efforts will be most exceptionally rewarded after the hard work we of Rogue Zero will be partaking."

"We're well aware, Cesar. Did you assemble us to gloat or what?" Ariella chastised.

Cesar pouted in frustration. "Oooh~! Always to the point! Can't a genius exercise his creative justice for just three minutes?!" he sighed. "Oh well, I suppose it can't be helped. I can make an exception this time. Now then, Maximus…" he clapped his hands, making a holographic screen appear in front of everyone. Each one began shrinking into a card. "To you, I have constructed what we needed. I trust that you'll find these most pleasing."

The cards solidify and spun on their Bakumeters. Reading the descriptions, they all had different reactions. Maximus smirked beneath his hood as his eyes narrowed. "Well, well, Cesar…I knew I could count on you."

Cesar flamboyantly chuckled. "Why of course. Thanks to lending me your Bakugan this morning, they should be fit and in sync with these abilities. And I assure you, with all the battles that they've been through, their repercussions shouldn't be anywhere near when we started."

"As you say." Hendrix said quietly.

Maximus stepped forwards. He took steps closer until he stood in the middle of all his associates. "Very well then." He turned away. "So then, I take it we're all ready? Good, that's just what we need. Vestal isn't going to wait forever you know, so that said, I'll ask again, any objections?" He got no replies from anyone. They all had either confident smirks or serious frowns, like their lives depended on it. "I didn't think so…then let's move."

---

Sunrise was coming around over Vestal. The gang that was over by Klaus' estate and lavish home were all sleeping soundly in their individual beds. Thanks to the upgrades, they were nice and soft, so soft in fact that they were out like lights. Keegan was in his own bed imbedded into the wall, looking rather disgruntled by a dream he was having. He stirred awake and groaned as he sat up. He looked over to find Shuji laying on his side, looking content by some dream he was having, and Jase was out as well. He looked out towards the daylight beginning to show, realizing the sun hasn't risen yet. But realizing he couldn't sleep, he got out of his makeshift bed.

Soon after, he found himself on a walk outside the Trailer. In spite of the warm rays illuminating the morning dew, he wasn't particularly appeased. The questions inside his head still run, and he wasn't sure what to do with them. "Damn thoughts. Why won't they just get out of my head?"

He needed something to get his mind off of things. As he walked along the lake edge, he noticed someone not too far away. He was a man with white hair it seemed, with green eyes and a suit on. In his hand was a fish bowl, yet there no fish.

"What the…?"

Standing on the lake's edge, Klaus looked out as the morning breeze shifted his hair. "Ah, the breeze of a new morning. Fresh as the budding of daisies after a harsh winter."

"The air is most certainly refreshing, Master Klaus." Sirenoid said.

"That it is my dear Sirenoid…" Klaus heard footsteps and looked over to see Keegan with his grouchy expression. "Hm? Another morning person perhaps? What can I do ya for?"

Keegan had a stern look as he looked at Sirenoid and back at Klaus. His expression did little to change as he looked away.

"You seem to be rather troubled. Is there something bothering you?" Klaus asked.

"Why don't you go mind your own business, alright?" Keegan sniped. "Geez, you humans and Vestals. Everybody keeps playing 20 questions like it's no big deal. Can I just go 5 minutes without anyone bugging me?" He had hands in his pocket as he bypassed Klaus. He took hostile strides to show he was annoyed.

"Master Klaus."

"I know, Sirenoid." He watched Keegan's back. "I can see well." He stepped forward. "You're one of my guest's group, are you not?"

"What about it?" Keegan grunted.

"Your still waters run so deep, yet it's so clear we can see the bottom." Once Klaus said those words, Keegan stopped in his tracks. "Your rough waters are causing ripples that aren't very refreshing. What's the matter? I'm sure there's something to ease what you feel."

Keegan's teeth gritted in growing frustration. "Like you know." He sniped harshly. "I'm not taking anyone's pity for their sake. I never asked for you to be nice to me you know!" His voice was actually beginning to break down as his shoulders shuddered.

Klaus kept his calm. "That's where you are wrong. I never said I had to be friendly. As a gentleman, I'm merely expressing myself in kind. Nobody said I should."

Keegan glared over his shoulder, his hostile eyes showing. "Oh yeah, well who said I had a choice, huh?" His voice had such an insidious venom towards it and he turned around. "Like it matters to you, because you think you can be what you wanna be!"

"What?"

Keegan balled his fists angrily. "I didn't agree to this…I didn't agree to any of this! This stupid mission these yahoos are on! And this ridiculous journey…what's the point?! Why are they like this? Why…" his teeth gritted in growing frustration. "WHY DID IT HAVE TO GO THIS WAY FOR ME?!" He shouted his misting eyes.

Klaus and Sirenoid watched with wide eyes as Keegan was exerting his frustrations. He looked down as soft tears came down the sides of his face as his teeth gritted so hard that they were chattering.

"It's just not fair…" he swallowed. "I had it going, and then it was taken away from me by these idiots that I'm stuck with…that Luke idiot…that's all he is, but he's trying so hard to be anything but that freakish prick that messed up everything I had." He rammed his fist hard into the ground. "Why is that fatty and that idiot trying to be better?! Everything I've known is fixed, so why break that and change who you are?! I…I…"

"You don't know your self-worth." Klaus said calmly. "Is that what this is about?"

Keegan stopped his whimpering and turned towards the lake. "Maybe I should've been dead. Things would've been better for me then."

Klaus walked forward. "You think ignoring change will bring you peace in mind. Call it pretentious, but ignorance is bliss. I can understand."

Keegan shot to his feet and glared in his face. "Oh yeah?! What do you know?!"

Klaus closed his eyes. "You see, a long time ago, I too lost everything at one point. I lost what reputation I hd. I lost my hopes, my dreams, and more importantly…I was all alone." He looked down to his fish bowl. "Without my Sirenoid, I was without meaning. I was filled with despair. The roses in my gardens wilted because of lack of care. When you lose what you hold dearest, that's when you realize how powerless you are."

Keegan held back tears as he looked down again. "But I don't wanna be powerless…I just want everything back the way it was! When it was simple!"

Klaus frowned. "Unfortunately, you can't undo change. But perhaps you as a person can change instead. If you hold nothing dear now, then you must find something worth holding onto. Tell me, what do you want?"

That same question rung his head. Keegan turned away in regret. "Gnnngh…" he swallowed a lump as he shuddered harder than before. "…I don't know. I don't even know who I am, or what I am…"

"An identity crises." Klaus put a hand to his chin, thinking of something. "I see. To know what you want, you must first know who you are."

"But I don't even know how to figure that out!"

"Well then…" Klaus gently put the fish bowl down, allowing Sirenoid into his palm. "If you'd like, Sirenoid and I would be willing to help."

Keegan looked back, shocked. "What?" he snapped. "You seriously think a battle will solve my problems?"

"Well now, perhaps you have another alternative?" He insisted. "In battle, one must focus their mind and picture what they want to see in the end. As a Bakugan Brawler, we always figure out who we are and define our styles in battle. Perhaps now would be as good as time s any to start on that path. What would you say?"

Keegan glared in annoyance at what Klaus said. He hardly found a battle meaningful right now. He wanted something productive, or rather something that could help him with his stress. But he didn't know how or who to tell anyone else this to. He'd rather not tell Luke's group, and he'd rather get on Ace's foot to make himself feel good. But this was the best option, so he had to go with it. "You're seriously annoying…" he craned his head at him. "But if it'll get these questions out of my head, fine."

"Splendid! Then allow me to escort you to a fine area."

Klaus and Keegan found themselves son the opposite sides of the lake. Klaus was on one island connected to the mainland, and Keegan was on an island with a long bridge towards the other end. Keegan had a hollow stare while Klaus had a charismatic calm.

Keegan: 100% Klaus: 100%

"Keegan, you may have the honors. Show me what you are as a battler." Klaus insisted.

"Oh, I'll do more than that." He growled as he pulled out a Gate Card. "Gate Card, set!" He threw the card out, making it fade in a blue ripple across the water. "I'm gonna win! Bakugan, brawl! Bakugan, stand! Rise, Aquos Mystic Elico!"

In a blue aquatic spiral, a claw dug and slashed through the water, revealing Keegan's Mystic Elico ready.

"I see, so that is his Bakugan. Interesting." He held Sirenoid and smiled. "My dear Sirenoid, ready to fill this morning with her beautiful voice?"

"As toy wish, Master Klaus." Sirenoid closed in ball form, which Klaus clutched tightly.

"Very well then. Bakugan, brawl! Sirenoid, stand!" Klaus threw in Aquos Sirenoid, which became a blue light that faded into the water. The water was stiff for a moment before slowly, Sirenoid and her staff with a lyre attached to it slowly eroded out, showing her grace in her debut.

Mystic Elico: 450 Sirenoid: 400

"You're as beautiful as ever Sirenoid." Klaus complimented. "So then, shall we show them who we are?"

"Yes, indeed." She nodded.

Keegan's brow twitched as he pulled up his Bakumeter. "Let's see who's who after I wash you to bits!" he snapped. "Ability, activate! Blue Aria!" His Mystic Elico shimmered a small blue aura as he put his claws together, creating a ball of glowing blue water that was like a jewel. Once ready, he fired it at Sirenoid.

Mystic Elico: 450 (+200) = 650 Sirenoid: 400 (-100) = 300

The sphere drifted above the water at Sirenoid, but she remained calm as Klaus pulled an ability up. "Ability, activate! Final Neptune!"

"Yes, Master Klaus." Sirenoid daintily glided her fingers over her harp, the water rocking and making gentle ripples as her harmonic hymn echoed through the air. The incoming sphere if water began to ripple before her song caused it to palpitate in place and pop like a bubble. The sprays only illuminated her in blue sparkles that made her beauty stand out further.

Mystic Elico: 650 (-200) = 450 Sirenoid: 300 (+100 +200) = 600

Keegan covered his ears as Sirenoid's voice was making his head stir. "Gnnngh…gaah! I thought I said get these voices outside my head! I don't wanna hear it!"

"Ill acceptance of other's voices is rather selfish." Klaus pointed out. "Would you rather listen to yourself when you don't even know who you are?"

Keegan grunted and pulled another card up. "Ability, activate! Mystic Dice!" His Mystic Elico stayed still as a glow appeared, generating into a die in midair. He grabbed it, forcing it to stop on a green symbol. The symbol glowed green, causing a green whirlwind to envelop Mystic Elico. When it faded, it revealed he was in his Ventus attribute. "See?" he sniped. "Mystic Elico can change his attribute…can you do that?"

Klaus, however, continued smirking. "So you change attributes…interesting. So you refuse to be just one person then."

"What's that mean?"

"Rather than remain true to Aquos, you take it upon yourself to deflect the meaning of your attribute. You choose another attribute why exactly? To ignore the changes and hope to find something that fits you perhaps?"

Keegan's teeth gritted in frustration. Klaus was getting to him so badly he was having trouble showing his denial. "It's called strategy if you've ever heard of it. Changing attributes is the best way to throw off an opponent." He showed an ability on his Bakumeter. "Ability activate, Tornado Mayhem!" Mystic Elico swiped his arms, creating a flurry of small green cyclones around him. The four small cyclones picked up some water as they were directed at Sirenoid.

Mystic Elico: 450 (+200) = 650 Sirenoid: 600 (-200) = 400

As winds shifted Klaus' hair, he felt the cooling breeze. "Your breeze is more like chilled ice than a tepid calm this morning needs. Allowing us to change that! Ability activate, Deep Sea Dive!" Sirenoid arched her body and dove into the water, streaming blue that faded into the water as the cyclones all converged. They grew into one cyclone, which soon dissipated into currents that breezed through Klaus and Keegan's hair.

"Damnit, he nullified that, too." Keegan swore.

Mystic Elico: 650 (-200) = 450 Sirenoid: 400 (+200) = 600

Mystic Elico remained stiff as the waters were still beneath it. Suddenly, a geyser of water flourished from beneath, picking the Bakugan up. As it soared, it reached the peak, in which Sirenoid climbed atop the pillar next. Above, she smacked her tail, hitting Mystic Elico and making him tailspin onto the water's surface like hitting concrete. Meanwhile, she dove back into the water.

"So what is your next move? Will you change attribute, or stick to who you are now?" Klaus asked.

"How about neither! Gate Card, open!" Keegan reached out, making the card glow. "Healing Up!" The glow made Mystic Elico clenched both fists as a green aura enveloped his body.

Klaus smiled. "Perhaps you should look at another angle. Just because it happens doesn't mean it'll go your way. For example…" he showed an ability. "Sirenoid, ready yourself! Ability, activate! Mirror Ripple!"

"As you wish, Master Klaus." Sirenoid played her harp once more, this time remaining silent as blue ripples similar to Abis Omega's Aquos Ripple exerted. The Gate Card began to distort as the ripples bounced all around, until finally it revealed the card in reverse for Sirenoid. The green aura around Mystic Elico faded, and Sirenoid instead had a blue aura shimmering around her body.

Mystic Elico: 450 Sirenoid: 600 (+300) = 900

"What?" Keegan gasped. "But how did you…"

"Simple, Keegan. Sirenoid and I made use of your Gate Card for ourselves." He explained. "To make use of one's advantages and turn them into your own, that is the key to manipulation." He reached forward. "Now, Sirenoid!"

Sirenoid raised her staff and pointed it at Mystic Elico. A cyclone of water flowed from it and shredded across the water, which swallowed up the Bakugan. Mystic Elico tried to cover up, but with no traction in the water, it was sent flying backwards. It became a blue sphere and went back to Keegan's feet as he stood in shock.

Keegan: 10%

Keegan dropped to a knee as he tried picking up Mystic Elico again. "Damnit."

Sirenoid returned to Klaus, who looked sympathetic towards the circumstances. "If you believe changing your attribute will help you get by, that's just one way. As an Aquos battler, I make it my responsibility to abide by what I have chosen."

Keegan slouched back. "Shut it, just shut it! I don't wanna hear it!"

"Perhaps not." Klaus held up a Gate Card. "Allow my actions to speak in my place. Gate Card, set!" He shot the Gate Card out, fading into another ripple across the water. "Bakugan, brawl! Sirenoid, stand!" Once more, Sirenoid appeared in the water yet again, holding onto her lyre.

Keegan held his Mystic Elico and sneered angrily. 'Who are you? What do you want?' His eyes narrowed as he tried thinking, but rather than listen, he threw Mystic Elico. "Bakugan, brawl!"

Mystic Elico popped open, summoned once more in a cyclone of water.

Mystic Elico: 450 Sirenoid: 400

Keegan pulled out an ability instantly. "Ability, activate! Mystic Dice!" Another golden glow turned into a die that Mystic Elico clutched, stopping it on the Pyrus symbol. A tornado of fire enveloped him as the attribute made his color scheme Pyrus-related. When the tornado vanished, embers flared around him.

"So it's Pyrus this time." Klaus said. "Sirenoid."

"Not to worry. I am ready." She assured.

"Ability, activate! Pyrus Spear!" Mystic Elico's wings all spread out, in which from the tips, red energy beams fired directly across the water as Sirenoid.

Mystic Elico: 450 (+200) = 650 Sirenoid: 400

Klaus showed an ability at the ready. "Ability, activate! Ripple Shield!" Sirenoid strung her lyre again as the water beneath shuddered. A wall of water arose like a fortress, stopping the spears of red energy cold.

Mystic Elico: 650 (-400) = 250 Sirenoid: 400

Keegan looked on with growing annoyance. "Ability activate, Burn Shield!" Like what Sirenoid did, Mystic Elico surrounded himself in a wall of spinning fire. It rotated fast, making a heated wave that made mist erode everywhere.

Mystic Elico: 250 Sirenoid: 400 (-200) = 200

"You think you can help me?!" Keegan challenged. "I lost it all, so what do I got left?! What if I like the way I am, huh? Just because you all think lowly of me doesn't mean I care!"

Klaus surprisingly smiled. "And yet this 'you' is transparent." He saw Keegan squint. "You may think you changing the way you are is efficient, but you can't control it. If you can't, then someone ese will. Like so!" Klaus reached out. "Gate Card, open! Raio Hazard!"

The Gate Card opened once more, and this time the mist in the area began to fade away as the tornado wall started turning from fire to water. The liquified barrier ceased itself and reveled Mystic Elico, who was now back to Aquos.

"You…you stopped my attribute change?" Keegan couldn't believe it.

"I fixed you the way one should be. Stability as it is." Klaus said. "Why do you think you're better off not being Aquos? Are you rather better at running from what you can be good at?"

"Stop. Tantalizing. Me~!" Keegan snapped. "Ability, activate! Blue Aria!" Mystic Elico created another shimmering sphere of water and shot it in a pulse wave at Sirenoid again.

Mystic Elico: 250 (+200) = 450 Sirenoid: 200 (-100) = 100

As the pulse wave drew closer, Klaus held a strong front. "Are you ready, Sirenoid?"

"Indeed." She raised her lyre high. "It's time that we finish this battle!"

Klaus nodded. "Then let's make him face the music. Ability activate, Devora Amthemusa!" Sirenoid strung her lyre one more time, making the chords echo with the water. Once more, her harmonic voice began to shrill the air. The bubble of water was so close, but then a wave of water shot up and dissipated it. As the sparkles radiated Sirenoid, her lyre played a melody as a swirling whirlpool that began to expand. As it closed in on Mystic Elico, Sirenoid remained composed.

Mystic Elico: 450 (-200) = 250 Sirenoid: 100 (+100 +300) = 500

The whirlpool closed in, and Keegan wanted to tell his Bakugan to move. But something was wrong. He was covering his ears as he was shutting out music again. 'Drats! I can't think…no, that's not it. Why…why am I like this? Why am I losing?! Am I…am I really that transparent?!'

The whirlpool finally swallowed Mystic Elico. The Bakugan plummeted and was swirling inside the water uncontrollably as Sirenoid was in the center of it all. Her opponent wailed as she controlled the flow.

"CRAP!" Keegan wailed. His eyes continued showing pain as he glared up. 'No…I'm losing again…why…why?! I thought…was I this flawed…?'

'It looks like he's getting it. Better wrap this up.' Klaus faced the sky. "Sirenoid!"

Sirenoid let out one last hum as she plucked her lyre one more time. The last pitch made the water continue swirling for several more second…moments before it all collapsed in an aquatic eruption. Droplets spouted everywhere, leaving Keegan stupefied, and Klaus with a straight face.

As the water settled, Mystic Elico was seen rolling in ball form next to Keegan, the boy falling to his feet in shame and regret.

Keegan: 0%

The water quelled at long last, and Sirenoid morphed back to ball form into Klaus' hand. Klaus opened his palm and smiled at her. "You've done me very well, Sirenoid. I am perhaps the proudest man on this new morning thanks to you."

"Thank you dearly for your praise." Sirenoid said, her cheeks becoming rosy.

Klaus smiled dearly at her, but he knew they had to get to the task. He and Sirenoid faced Keegan as he despaired in his defeat. They walked up to him, looking down at him with sincerity.

Keegan didn't know what to say. He just looked at the ground somberly as he realized what he was and what was wrong. "Was I…that easy to read all this time?"

Klaus kneeled to his level, looking him at the same elevation. "Then I suppose that means who you are, right?"

Keegan hardened. "Yeah. A weakling who can't accept anything…even his own beatings!" He punched the ground in frustration. He closed his eyes, trying to hide the pain, but was doing terribly at it.

"And why exactly were you weak?" Klaus stood up, still holding Sirenoid in hand. "Because you are afraid, aren't you?" He saw Keegan's eyes widen. "You don't know what you want so you take the hard path. There's no easy way either, because change is inevitable. If you're going to change, you need to be open to it, as well as those around you. So why were you blocking out Sirenoid's voice?"

Keegan glanced off to the side, trying to find what to say or think. When he realized it, he blinked and huffed in exasperation. "…yeah, so what? What can I hope to gain from others reaching out? I've never had anybody to rely on but myself."

"Well." Klaus stepped forward. "If you want to start, now would be a good place. You earn from your mistakes, now it's time to change."

He was right. It was time to accept things. Keegan just wanted to know where he stood, and now realized how worthless he was. And yet, despite this, he didn't want to go down as a deadbeat who was a sore loser. He's heard that before from Luke. 'Did he really feel this way after destroying my home?' Picking up the pieces of this revelation, he mournfully smiled. "I…I really am a jerk aren't I?" he chuckled meekly. "Geez, all you guys being all touchy and supportive is really weird. I see those guys getting along and all, but I just feel it's not to my liking. But, I need help knowing what I wanna do. So…you think you or someone can help me?"

Klaus reached his hand out. "Gladly. I'm sure the others will, too."

Though he wasn't sure, Keegan smirked. He reached out, accepting his handshake. All just as the sun finally arose above the tree line, radiating Keegan's face in brightness at finding what he wanted to do.

Watching from the Trailer, Jase remained quiet before he walked back inside, half-smiling.

---

After a quick breakfast and refreshing themselves, the gang found themselves outside the Trailer. Ready to take action. And, much to their surprise, Keegan was present too, although he was off to the side.

"Alright, I believe everyone is fresh and ready for the day." Jase insinuated.

Maggie nodded. "You bet, we're ready. Right, Jelldon?"

The Pyrus Bakugan lifted his eyes up and down. "Sure thing."

"So we're supposed to find Spectra today, at least that's the plan, right?" Shawn reiterated.

"Right." Esther answered.

Luke's brow furrowed with determination. "Right, then we better try and cover ground. He could be around here somewhere as far as we know."

Shuji chuckled. "'Around here somewhere' huh? Even I knew that!" he laughed, much to Luke's chagrin.

Keegan stepped forward. "Alright, count me in. Let's just get this over with, alright?" Everyone in the group went wide-eyed and turned towards him. The looks he was given disturbed him. "What?"

"You wanna help?" Maggie exasperated. "Sorry, but I thought you'd rather sleep than be hanging around us. That is what you said, right?"

Keegan folded his arms and looked away. "Don't get ahead of yourself, alright? I just don't have anything better to do. Might as well try something to pass the time."

Luke leaned into Shawn. "Is he alright?" he whispered. "He seems…different."

Shawn meekly smirked. "This coming from you." The comment made Luke cringe, much to Shawn's jovial chuckling.

Jase observed Keegan a few moments before straightening up. "Good. Now that everyone's fully participating, we can get back to the topic then."

---

In Riaan's palace, the sun had reached a certain point over Riaan's throne. He stood and stared at the beaming sun with Hades Pillars, awaiting for when they would see it happen.

"Cesar…give Vestal your little welcome gift." Maximus snapped his fingers.

"With pleasure." He raised a handheld button and smirked. "Vestal~, behold, and witness my genius!"

The button pressed down, making all the sirens go off. The room beeped red as all the screens went from green to blue. The panels all had caution signs as the project went down, and Cesar just smirked it off.

…

In another secret lab, it was too dark to see, but a figure was staring at his computer screen while running analysis data alongside someone else. The screen abruptly showed red warning signs, making them both frown.

"What's this…?" One figure turned towards the other, revealing his own frown as his sharp blue eye glared at the screen and data waves.

…

A dimensional portal opened up above Vestal's city, alarming many people present. As they all looked up, they showed some signs of panic. But it didn't stop there. Another portal was seen over a massive body of water, with another showing in another city. And another part. Until finally, countless holes in the sky were counted.

"Now…GO!" Cesar declared.

Stepping out of one portal, a Verias with black fur and dull eyes roared out to the world. Citizens ran away as it stepped into Vestal. Following behind him, another Verias with black fur jumped out, roaring outwards.

In the oceanic inhabitants, an Aquos Jelldon with black coating bounced out of the portal, plopping in the water. Next to follow was a black Abis Omega as it slithered into the water, soon to be followed by others, including a few Aquos tainted Freezer.

Black-coated Hammersaur and Anchorsaur stepped out of portals below, while Atmos and Fly Beetle flew out of the portals above. They cawed, while Fly Beetle buzzed around. In a few other portals, pitch-black Atchibee flew out, shrieking and making citizens panic and run around like wild animals.

All over Vestal, panels and smartphones showed the unholy images of Bakugan invading. Some Anchorsaur stepped into the cities, crushing automobiles as citizens ran away. However, on the other end of the street, they were at the mercy of a few Hammersaur snarling at them, making them scream louder.

In his office early, Klaus scooted out of his seat and looked out his window. In the skies nearby, see saw a portal that was spitting out flying dark Bakugan.

"Master Klaus, what is happening?!" Sirenoid shrieked.

"I don't know, Sirenoid…" his eyes narrowed. "But this is gonna be a big problem."

---

"Ace!"

"Baron!"

The two met up in the center of the plaza. They split up to get groceries for the next few days, but unfortunately, they were cut off when all the mayhem began.

"Baron, what's going on?!"

"I don't know! But it looks like we're being attacked!" The land shuddered beneath them, making them both turn to see Bakugan with dark coating close in. Their eyes were devoid of pupils, showing deep hazy dull stares at random places and people. "Guys…? I think we're in trouble…"

Ace's eyes narrowed. "Great." He snapped. "So it looks like those guys were right after all. Man, I can't believe I was doubting them!"

"Forget about that! We need to stop them!" Percival declared.

"He's right. Baron!" Nemus shouted.

Getting the memo, Baron nodded. "Right, sorry!" he seized Nemus. "No time for shock! We gotta get these people to safety!"

"Right, so let's clear the area!" Ace declared, seizing Percival. "Bakugan…"

"BRAWL!" Both fired their Bakugan, making a purple and yellow light illuminate the ground. The Hammersaur and Anchorsaur on either side were met with a harsh heel and a stab by a staff when Percival and Nemus respectively arose to fight. The two Bakugan fell over with thuds, leaving the Darkus and Haos Bakugan room to ready themselves.

"You ready, Percival?" Ace asked.

"You know it!" He declared.

"Get ready, Nemus!" Baron shouted.

"I am always ready, Baron!" Nemus twirled his staff before he aimed at the Bakugan horde in front.

---

In the distance, portals were seen flooding Bakugan into the area. Overhead, Atmos of varied attributes, yet with dark coating, all hovered over the air. Below, everyone looked up in horror.

"What's going on?!" Luke shouted. "I-it looks like an invasion!"

"Is this a freaking all-out attack or something?!" Maggie gasped.

"Uh, I don't think it's a nice way to say hello!" Jelldon worried. The ground shuddered around him, making him and everyone turn around to see the tree line breaking apart. They all saw the trees break, revealing a Pyrus Saurus that was tainted in dark plating. It flexed as it found foes.

"You've gotta be kidding me!" Shuji exclaimed.

Fly Beetle raised his horn. "Huh?" he took a closer look to see the devoid eyes. "Hold the phone, those eyes. Are those Bakugan what I think they are?"

"…tainted." Esther growled.

Shawn gritted his teeth. "Riaan."

The Saurus roared as it charged right for them. It close in surprisingly quick, leaving the others surprised. Before they could act, the shadow was right over them as a Pyrus Atmos sailed down onto them.

"Bakugan, brawl!"

The two Bakugan closed in with all they had, but a massive pair of claws stopped Atmos, while another pair gripped against Saurus' chest, slowing him down. When they caught their breaths, everyone gasped when they realized that Mystic Elico was blocking them both with one hand each.

Luke went wide-eyed. "Huh?! But isn't that…?" His eyes shifted towards Keegan.

"What are you guys doing?! Go!" he snapped.

"Keegan…?" Verias questioned.

Shawn stepped forward. "Hold on! What about-?!"

"Shut up! There's these freakshows everywhere, and that Spectra guy is nearby! He's gotta be somewhere in the city, now go! Mystic Elico can't hold them off forever!" Just as he said that, the land shuddered nearby. He flinched as the Saurus fell over. He saw Mystic Elico use his free hand now to jab the Atmos, stabbing it in the chest and making it veer away. "Go!"

"Keegan…" Luke was shocked to say the least. Now he was the one speechless. He didn't know what to do, until Esther touched his shoulder.

"Luke…we need to go."

Luke was hesitant, but when he looked back at Keegan, he saw the ambitious look on his face. He looked confident than he was before. "Keegan…" He balled his fists and looked away. "If things get bad, just run! Let's go guys!"

"Right!" Together, they all threw in their Bakugan on the ground. In unison, all of them came out of ball form, with their partners mounting them. Esther and Jase took to the air with Atchibee and Atmos, with Fly Beetle not too far behind. Meanwhile, Jelldon, Verias, and Abis Omega took to the ground.

"Let's move!" Jase ushered Atmos, who flew ahead towards the city area. Not far behind, Atchibee flapped onwards, with Fly Beetle taking to the tree line below. Meanwhile, the other Bakugan squirmed, ran, and slithered into the trees, making way as fast as possible for the exit.

As they went, Luke looked back over his shoulder, seeing Keegan holding his ground. 'Keegan…I'm sorry!' He painfully veered forwards and screamed. "GO, ABIS!" With him, the serpent shrilled a determined cry as he slithered onwards.

"Just run, huh?" Keegan scoffed, but smirked. "Tch…hypocrites. Mystic Elico!"

Mystic Elico reached forward, attacking the Saurus as they both collided in the center once more.

---

"Nemus, go!" Baron showed an ability. "Ability, activate…"

Nemus raised his staff as a golden light encompassed into a hemisphere. "Sparkly Arrow!" He threw the attack with everything he had, sending it in a comet at the horde of Bakugan in their wake, A bright yellow explosion swallowed up three Bakugan at once, making the two Hammersaur and Verias fade into their attribute colors before disappearing. As they vanished, many more species took their place.

Ace reached out. "Percival! Dain Sleif!"

A bright purple slash wave took up everything, with crossed again. Percival was seen passing many Bakugan at once before purple explosions swallowed them up. The land shuddered beneath them as the shockwaves settled.

Ace uncovered as he glared forward. "Man, just where are these guys coming from?!"

"Look out! Above us!" Baron warned.

Percival and Nemus looked up to see Baron's warning. All at once, Atmos swooped in a flock and passed through the area. Once they caught sights of Nemus and Percival, they cawed as projectile beams matching their attribute colors fired from the jewels on their chests. They both were bombarded as brilliant rays illuminated the ground, causing dust and rock to erupt beneath in their shouts.

Ace and Baron screamed as they were flown off their feet and onto their backs. They gagged as they laid on the ground, catching up with their shock.

"Ace!" Percival looked down at his partner before Haos beams attacked him from the side, swallowing him in a burst of light, screaming in pain.

Nemus staggered up. "This is bad…we gotta turn this around guys." He staggered back up, facing the army that was surrounding them.

---

In another part of the city, Bakugan were knocking into city buildings. The area was littered in debris as citizens were evacuating. The streets were so crowded that people had to go by foot, but some weren't lucky as debris was falling onto them, if not Bakugan feet.

A little girl was hurrying with her mommy as they hurried away. "Mommy!" The girl squealed as she tripped.

"Sweetie!" The mother rushed back, but was thwarted when a dark-coated Freezer appeared, hissing as it was right over the girl. The girl was in shock and tears in her eyes as her mother was also paralyzed.

The Freezer raised a tentacle to strike, unknowingly knocking another building part out of place. The debris fell as the tentacle swung down. The debris was over the mother as the tentacle aimed to crush the girl. They both closed their eyes to await the end.

But it never came.

Two brimming yellow flashes cleaved through two different objects. The mother and daughter uncovered, both gasping at what they saw.

A man with red hair with a yellow energy sword cleave the rock in half, making it fall to either side with crumbling thuds. Meanwhile, in the same slash pose, his Bakugan had axes in the arms that sliced Freezer's face. The Bakugan hissed weakly as it faded to nothing.

Still in shock, the woman was shuddering. "What…who are…?"

"Can you still walk?" the man asked.

The woman shakily nodded. "Y-yeah…"

"Then you better get going. Hurry, and grab your child and get far away!" He shouted. "NOW!"

The mother didn't hesitate. She hurried and comforted her daughter as they rushed away from the scene. The girl, however, couldn't help but keep looking back as the man with red hair glanced at them before facing ahead. They soon got out of sight, leaving him to adjust his position with his energy sword.

"Brontes."

Alto Brontes reached down, allowing the man revealed to be Luka onto his shoulder. He glared forward as he could see the many Bakugan ahead of them with the new angle. His disposition soured as he glared daggers ahead.

"Riaan…where the hell are you?" he sneered.

---

Watching from a very high point of the city, the Bakugan flew everywhere and caused the biggest panic. At such a height, Hades Pillars alongside Riaan watched as the carnage let loose uncontrollably. The chaos; the mayhem; it was intense…and it was just the beginning.

Hearing a Hammersaur roar, Amina scoffed. "Hmph, I got out bed for this? It's harder seeing the nail polish dry."

"Perhaps so, but this is just the beginning." Zion said. "Remember, this is Cesar's work."

"That's right." Lucia followed up. "Let's wait."

They all fell quiet as the chaos made the air tremble. As Bakugan were everywhere, Riaan closed his eyes as his powers were going on. With his feet in the massive watch point, he could feel everything attached. And with that, Armagedoid. Together, both could see schematics in a lab, with blueprints and DNA everywhere. Along with such vases, they saw Bakugan fighting them off, and they were struggling profusely.

"Armagedoid, listen and pay close attention." Riaan told him. "This is the path that I have made. It is wrong…but this is pain, suffering, and chaos. Eternal constitutions of life. These things are inevitable, and with that, comes those who oppose us."

Armagedoid nodded. "I see…so this is what pain looks like."

"It's not something to relish in…" his eyes sharpened. "But the pain you feel proves you are alive."

"It's painful to watch…but that means I am alive. I understand." Armagedoid declared. "Code Eve, she will see this as a sign of the pain we feel from her."

Riaan watched the scenes as his cape shifted. "Yes, Armagedoid. This is the beginning of our retribution."

---

A Verias with black fur charged, but a tail slam followed by a blue streak slashed its face, sending it falling onto its back. Abis Omega adjusted as he hissed.

"There's more coming!" Luke adjusted his stance for his blade. "On our right!" They both turned to see more Bakugan come."

"Darkus Stream!" A purple tornado dropped from the skies, swallowing up the Jelldon in a frenzy. Dropping from above was Esther as she caught up.

"Esther!" Luke chirped.

Atchibee didn't waste a second. She slashed into the tornado with her scythes, cutting the wind and the Jelldon alike. The Jelldon glowed a bright yellow and faded away.

"There's more coming around the back." Esther warned. "Shuji and the others should be handling that."

"Got it!" Luke faced forward. "Let's go, Abis!"

"Right!" The Aquos Bakugan hissed loudly, declaring himself battle ready as the many Bakugan sneered at them.

Fly Beetle, Verias, Jelldon, Atmos, and everybody else were all taking care of other. Electric shocks, whirlwinds, even small insects swarmed the Bakugan, followed off by repetition over and over. Diamonds shot everywhere by Abis, and Atchibee slashed into foes nonstop. They all made such powerful comebacks, and s Bakugan were swarming them Atmos made a tornado with mixed with Jelldon's electricity. The combined attack expanded the winds to push back the Bakugan, as well as making them fade away. That last move as it faded made Maggie smile at Jase as he looked calmly at her.

"We putting a dent in yet?" Fly Beetle asked.

"Yeah don't count on it just yet." Shuji answered.

The Bakugan continued swarming, and they weren't letting. They all found themselves pinned together, ready to make a counter attack.

"Hold it." A voice answered. "Leave those…to us."

The Bakugan all obediently stopped. They all slowly backed away, allowing passage for certain people to step forward. As they closed in, their strides and their postures were all too familiar.

Luke's eyes narrowed. "Wait…"

Abis sneered. "What?"

A toothy, maniacal sneer came from a man with a hood, his glare barely visible in his eyes. "Well, well, well…what do we have here?"

Esther looked surprised. "You…"

Shuji gaped his mouth for a moment before spazzing. "Wait…HUH?!"

"Been a while, hasn't it?" another man said. "Still barking up the wrong trees I see. Guess some people never learn."

Jase narrowed his eyes, "So, they did come…" Before them, the group that was present was none other than their nemesis. The very bane of their existence as of now. "So, you've tailed us to here now, haven't you…Rogue Zero."

"Rogue Zero." Luke gasped in shock.

Maximus glared at Luke. He seemed rather amused to see the Aquos battler once more. "Well, well, well. Luke…what a coincidence." He showed a smirk. "I'm quite surprised. Isn't this our lucky day."

---

Decided to go a different way for this chapter having a keen element with Keegan. Also, points for Killian scoring with Galilea! But now Luke's group in in a bind, and really fast as well.

Well next chapter, we're gonna see the amped up Rogue Zero squaring against them once more! Reviews are appreciated!